Open the door for 16-year-olds to donate blood

May 26, 2009

We urge the House of Representatives to follow suit with the Senate and approve Senate Bill 419.

Senate Bill 419, known in many circles as Jenna's law, would allow 16-year-olds to donate blood with permission from a parent or guardian. Donors age 17 and up will continue to be allowed to donate without permission.

The measure is named after the daughter of Senator Wayne Kuipers, R-Holland, who tried to give blood at age 16 but was denied because of her age.

"As Michigan's population ages and the demand for blood increases, the state cannot afford to be turning away new, healthy donors," said Wayne Kuipers. "The upcoming summer months place a tremendous strain on our blood supply system."

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The Michigan Community Blood Centers report 43,000 pints of blood are used daily in the United States. Demand has exceeded donations and shortages are regularly reported.

This legislation would not only curb the frequency of shortages and ultimately save lives it would open the door to a new group of young people allowing them to experience the rewards of helping others.

Those supporting the bill estimate that if enacted collections at blood drives at Michigan high schools would increase by 10-20 percent.

Similar laws permitting donations by 16 year olds have been enacted in 30 states including Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin. It's time for Michigan to get on board.